SkateFest Kiama was held from Thursday to Saturday at Kiama Skatepark and it included contests for several age groups, demonstrations, art stalls, merchandise and coaching lessons.

The windy conditions proved a challenge for skaters and event organisers alike but it did not deter the fun.

Read more: Wild winds expected across Illawarra

Australian Skateboarding general manager Donny Fraser said 48 competitors took to the skate bowl with the top six in each category advancing to the major skateboarding competition Rumble on the Reef.

"The event was absolutely amazing," he said.

"The feedback we received showed people were impressed with the high level of skill from local skateboards."

Australian skateboarding champion, Shellharbour resident Dani Campbell took out top prize in the open competition. The event helped raise money for him to head overseas to try and qualify for the Olympics.

Mr Fraser said the competition would be back bigger and better next year.

Organisers only had three months to plan the festival.

Mr Fraser said a year of preparation time would help to iron out any issues so the festival improved next year.